Strictly Matriarchal Society: Men are Not Permitted to Live in Umoja Kenya
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Strictly Matriarchal Society: Men are Not Permitted to Live in Umoja Kenya

by Chinazor Ikedimma on Jul 27, 2024

Nestled in the north-central region of Kenya, close to Archers Post, is the settlement of Umoja, a shining example of female empowerment and perseverance. Its name, appropriately chosen, means "unity" in Swahili, expressing the fundamental basis of this remarkable society. In the matriarchal civilization of Umoja, women are in charge. They are the main providers of income, oversee the town, and make decisions. A protective ring surrounding the settlement, made of traditional materials like mud and cow dung, is inhabited by a large number of the locals.

The community was created in 1990 by 15 women who had been raped by local British servicemen. Umoja's population has grown to include any woman fleeing child marriage, FGM (female genital mutilation), domestic violence, and rape, all of which are traditional standards among the Samburu. Rebecca Lolosoli founded Umoja and serves as the village matriarch. She was in the hospital recovering after a beating by a bunch of guys when she came up with the concept of a women's only society. The beating was an attempt to teach her a lesson for daring to talk with women in her village about their rights.

The ladies in Umoja have various backgrounds, but one thing in common: they want a safe refuge from the mistreatment of women in their community. One of the women claims she was raped by three uniformed guys. She was herding her husband's goats and sheep and transporting firewood when she was attacked. She was ashamed and couldn't talk about it with anyone else. She has a deep scar on her leg from being slashed by stones while pushed to the ground. When she finally told her husband about the rape, she was battered with a cane. So she ran to Umoja with her kids.

The Umoja women are thrivers rather than only survival. They have built a successful beading business, producing exquisite jewelry that they market to tourists. This keeps their cultural legacy intact while also giving them a means of subsistence. In addition, they successfully manage a campground where guests can experience their distinct way of life.

Umoja values education for both women and children. They have constructed a school in the community to ensure that the next generation receives a proper education and is equipped to make educated decisions. Also, the women promote awareness about women's rights and health issues in the community.

Men are normally not permitted to live in Umoja, however male visitors are welcome at the village. They still have babies for these men, and some of the ladies have children from multiple men.

Umoja promotes a deep feeling of belonging. When they arrive, women are frequently scarred from emotional and physical assault. The village offers a secure environment for recovery, life lessons learned, and constant support. Living in communal housing helps them find their strength, gain confidence, and acquire new skills. It's evidence of the strength of solidarity and the unbreakable spirit of women who stand their ground.

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